Calmer in 5, hosted by Thom Walters, helps you cultivate a more peaceful and balanced life in just five minutes a day. With insightful reflections and actionable tips, Thom guides listeners to slow down, reflect, and embrace calm amidst life's chaos. Perfect for those seeking a quick yet meaningful dose of mindfulness and serenity.
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Thomwalters Podcasts
Zen Commuter is about meditation and how it can improve the quality of your life. Thom Walters speaks with acclaimed meditation teachers, authors and everyday practitioners, to help listeners understand how to start a mindfulness habit, as well as keep it going. Along the way he discusses topics that help listeners cultivate a calmer, wiser and happier life. Come join Thom Monday through Friday to deepen your meditation practice.
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Not every moment in life ties up neatly. Some conversations trail off. Some endings never come. And yet, calm is still possible—even in the face of loose ends. In today’s episode, I explore how we can find peace not by forcing closure, but by learning to rest in the unknown. Whether it’s a lingering question, an unresolved relationship, or a dream …
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ZC 2122: Under Open Skies: How to Meditate Outside
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In today’s episode of Zen Commuter, we take our practice beyond four walls and into the wide embrace of nature. Meditating outside offers a unique opportunity to reconnect—not just with the present moment, but with the world around us. Whether it’s a quiet park bench, a forest trail, or your own backyard, outdoor meditation invites you to soften yo…
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1762: From Me to We: Slowing Down to Connect
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In today’s episode of Calmer in 5, we explore something deceptively simple, but deeply powerful—the act of slowing down to truly connect with others. It’s easy to get swept up in the current of our own to-do lists, inner chatter, and distractions. But when we pause—even for a moment—we open the door to meaningful human connection. When we release o…
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When we think of calm we often think about being alone, in the woods, at home alone or at the beach. But today I talk about how community, real community, can bring an even deeper sense of calm. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. L…
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ZC 2121: Knowing the Voice of Your Higher Self
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Inside all of us are many voices. Some uplift us, others cast doubt. How can we tell which one is our true guide? Today’s episode helps you learn to distinguish the voice of your higher self from the more reactive inner dialogue. Through body awareness and subtle cues in language, we’ll uncover how to better trust your wisest self. What we’ll cover…
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1760: Love Without Fixing: Finding Calm in Acceptance
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In today’s episode, we explore a subtle but powerful truth: real love doesn’t always come with advice, solutions, or action. Sometimes, the most calming and compassionate thing we can offer another person is simply our presence. When we stop trying to fix others and instead let them feel seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are, we invite peac…
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ZC 2120: Mobile Mindfulness Studio: Meditating in Your Car
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Many people feel like they don’t have time to meditate, especially during a busy commute. But what if that commute became part of your practice? Today on Zen Commuter, we’ll talk about how to use your car as a space for mindfulness. While safety must always be the priority, there are ways to incorporate stillness and presence even while driving. Wh…
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1759: Boundaries Are Beautiful: Protecting Your Peace with Grace
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IIn today’s episode, we explore the calming power of boundaries—and why they’re one of the kindest, most respectful ways to care for yourself and your relationships. Far from being walls, boundaries are invitations to connect with clarity and mutual understanding. When we set limits rooted in self-awareness and love, we create the space for calm to…
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ZC 2119: Divine Flow and Feminine Energy with Lillian Savoie
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In today’s inspiring episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Lillian Savoie, intuitive healer, spiritual teacher, and author of Fill Your Soul the Feminine Way. Together, we explore how tuning into divine feminine energy can help you move from striving to flowing—creating a more peaceful, purposeful life. Lillian shares her journey from corporate …
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ZC 2118: A Family, Maybe: Zen, Identity, and the Stories That Shape Us
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On today’s episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Lane Igoudin, author of A Family, Maybe—a beautiful, nuanced memoir about identity, belonging, and the shape-shifting nature of family. Our conversation moves between personal reflection and practical insight, touching on Lane’s writing process, the complexities of chosen family, and how Zen medit…
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1758: The Power of Listening in a Noisy World
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In today’s episode, we explore how the simple act of listening can be a powerful tool for creating calm. In a world full of noise, distractions, and constant opinions, truly hearing someone—without jumping in to fix or respond—builds trust, presence, and peace. Whether it’s a friend, a loved one, or even yourself, deep listening is one of the most …
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ZC 2117: Tricycle Week: Making Life Your Practice by Ken McLeod
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On Day Five of our special Tricycle Week, we explore the article "Making Life Your Practice" by Ken McLeod—a deeply practical and inspiring reminder that spiritual growth doesn’t just happen on the cushion. This piece reframes our everyday experiences—both the mundane and the messy—as the very terrain of awakening. In today’s episode, I reflect on …
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1757: How Diverse Friendships Lead to Greater Calm
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In today’s episode, I explore the powerful impact that having diverse friendships can have on our sense of calm. When we surround ourselves with people of different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, we expand our empathy and reduce our tendency to judge. These connections challenge our assumptions, foster greater understanding, and ultima…
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1756: The Gratitude Walk: A Simple Exercise for Daily Calm
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Episode Title: The Gratitude Walk: A Simple Exercise for Daily Calm Today’s episode introduces a beautifully simple practice to bring more peace into your day—a Gratitude Walk. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a walk where your only task is to list all the things you're grateful for. Whether it’s your health, a soft breeze, or your favorite pair o…
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ZC 2116: Tricycle Week: Knowing the Three Fortresses
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On Day Four of our special Tricycle Week, we explore the article "Knowing the Three Fortresses," a compelling piece that offers a fresh lens on inner resilience and spiritual grounding. Drawing from traditional Buddhist teachings, the article introduces the concept of the Three Fortresses—Powerful antidotes to distraction, confusion, and self-doubt…
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1755: Not Everyone Has a Bed: Reflections on Gratitude
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Not Everyone Has a Bed: Reflections on Gratitude Episode Description: In today’s episode, I explore how comparison can quietly erode our sense of peace. We’re often nudged—by media, culture, and even our own inner voices—to measure our lives against others. But when we chase what we think we lack, we lose sight of what we already have. Sometimes th…
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ZC 2115: Tricycle Week - Knowing Contentment by Myozan Ian Kilroy
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Zen Commuter — Tricycle Week: "Knowing Contentment" by Myozan Ian Kilroy Welcome to another insightful installment of Tricycle Week on Zen Commuter! Today, we explore the wisdom of Myozan Ian Kilroy in his poignant article, Knowing Contentment. In a world constantly pushing us toward more — more success, more possessions, more striving — Kilroy’s r…
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Small Moments, Big Calm Episode Description: In today’s episode, I talk about the quiet power of small moments—the ones we often overlook. A slow sip of coffee. A breath before a meeting. A glance out the window. These tiny pauses may not seem like much, but they can become anchors of calm throughout your day. You don’t need a retreat or a silent r…
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The Daily Buddhist by Brendan Barca and Pema Sherpa
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The Daily Buddhist by Brendan Barca and Pema Sherpa Today I read some selected passages from The Daily Buddhist. Authors Pema Sherpa and Brendan Barca have written a wonderful book whose essence is in total concert with Zen Commuter. Their book helps us life a fuller, calmer and more loving life by incorporating Buddhist principles and beliefs with…
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Let the Moment Be Enough Episode Description: In today’s episode, I invite you to consider a powerful shift: what if you didn’t have to get anything out of this moment? Not growth. Not productivity. Not even calm. When we drop the need to constantly optimize or improve every second, we open ourselves to the quiet relief of simply being. This short …
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Buddhism in the Everyday: Brendan Barca’s Insights for Modern Life
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Buddhism in the Everyday: Brendan Barca’s Insights for Modern Life What happens when ancient wisdom meets modern living? In today’s episode, I sit down with Brendan Barca, co-author of The Daily Buddhist, to talk about how Buddhist principles can bring more peace and clarity to your everyday routine. We explore the value of simple, consistent pract…
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Tricycle Week: The Power of a Quiet Life by Lewis Richmond
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Welcome to day two of Tricycle Week on Zen Commuter, where we continue exploring transformative insights from Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. Today’s featured article is The Power of a Quiet Life by Lewis Richmond. In this thoughtful reflection, Richmond reminds us that simplicity and stillness are not just retreats from the world but powerful found…
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Tricycle Week: Encourage Others by Overcoming Your Own Suffering by Venerable Pannavati
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It’s Tricycle Week here on Zen Commuter, a time when we explore wisdom from the pages of Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. Today’s episode features a powerful article by Venerable Pannavati titled Encourage Others by Overcoming Your Own Suffering. In it, she shares insight into how our personal healing can become a source of strength and support for t…
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1752: Debunking the Premise of Just One Soulmate and One Passion
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We lose our level of calm when we scrape and claw to find that one mythical soulmate or that one passion career. What if I told you that there isn’t just one perfect person, one perfect job/career? Today I talk about debunking a huge societal belief, one that may be keeping you stressed out. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anx…
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1751: Silent Walks: A Simple Way to Restore Peace
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What if calm was waiting just outside your door—and you didn’t need to take your phone with you? In this episode, we’ll explore the power of silent, no-input walks and how they help you reconnect with the present moment. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) THANK…
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Sometimes the fastest way to calm is the most natural. Today we’re talking about barefoot grounding—how a few minutes with your feet on the earth can regulate your nervous system and restore a sense of ease. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENI…
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1749: When You Let Go of Control, Calm Follows
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Trying to control every outcome can quietly drain your peace. In today’s episode, we’ll explore how replacing control with curiosity can dissolve tension and help you meet life with a lighter, calmer mindset. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) THANKS FOR LISTEN…
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A Preview of Tricycle Week: The Kamma of Goodwill
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Next week on Zen Commuter, we begin our popular Tricycle Week, a five-episode series where we explore and reflect on selected articles from Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. It’s a listener favorite and a perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the teachings of contemporary Buddhist writers. Today’s episode offers a preview with “The Kamma of Goodwill…
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1748: Breathe Into Calm: How Diaphragmatic Breathing Instantly Reduces Stress
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When stress takes over, the breath is your way back to calm. In this episode, we explore diaphragmatic breathing—a simple, natural technique that signals your body to relax. Whether you’re new to this practice or need a refresher, you’ll learn how to shift your breath and your state of mind in just minutes. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease…
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1747: Why We Crave Belonging: 5 Ways to Stop Compromising Yourself to Fit In
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It’s human to want connection—but sometimes that desire to fit in pulls us away from who we truly are. In today’s episode, we explore the deeper reasons behind our need to belong and how it can create inner tension and stress. You’ll also learn 5 simple, powerful ways to honor your true self and let go of the pressure to conform—so you can feel cal…
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1746: 3 Reasons Why You Lose Calm When You Worry About What Others Think of You
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It sure takes a lot of energy trying to read a room in order to fit in: making sure you say the right things, act a certain way. Not only does it take energy, it takes away our level of calm. Do you want to know why? Good. Come listen and find out. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Th…
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Vedic Meditation and Modern Stress - A Conversation with Michael Rosenfeld
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What if the key to handling modern stress wasn’t doing more, but doing less—much less? In this episode, Vedic Meditation teacher Michael Rosenfeld shares how an ancient practice offers surprising solutions to today’s fast-paced life. Discover how stillness can become your most powerful tool for clarity, resilience, and peace. What You'll Discover i…
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Jeff Patterson: Meditation Instructor and Author of The Yielding Warrior (R)
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Jeff Patterson, from Portland, OR, USA, has over 36 years of experience, practicing and teaching the meditative and martial arts. As the founder of Northwest Fighting Arts/Portland Tai Chi Academy and The Yielding Warrior, where he emphasizes the transformative power of meditative and martial arts practices, particularly the yielding concept. He ha…
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1745: Knowing How to Support Someone Creates Calm
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In today’s episode of Calmer in 5, we’re exploring how to show up for someone who’s going through a tough time. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, offering support can feel challenging—especially when you’re not sure what to say or do. I’ll walk you through four thoughtful ways to support someone with compassion, presence, and care…
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Three Insight Timer Features to Enhance Your Meditation Practice
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Insight Timer is, without a doubt, the top meditation app out today. With over 3000,000 meditations, talks and music tracks it has everything a meditator could want. And now it’s even better with three new enhancements to help you meditate more consistently, live intentionally and feel inspired all throughout the day. What You'll Discover in This E…
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